Hike Iona Island December 11th!

Ruins of early Dutch settlement from 2009 tour.

Doc Bayne, renowned local historian, photographer and educator, will again lead a hike around Iona Island in the Hudson River below Bear Mountain.

From evidence of native Americans on the island through the colonial farms and settlements, when it was known as Salisbury Island, and later as Weygant's Island. In the late 1800s it attracted tourists with an amusement park, hotel, and picnic grounds. Iona Island served as a major Northeast United States Naval arsenal from 1900 to 1965, complete with explosions, saboteurs and of course, the famous mothball fleet following WWII. Since 1965, when the Palisades Interstate Park Commission took possession, much of the island and surrounding marshes have become a wildlife preserve, providing valuable habitat for many species, including winter nesting for Bald Eagles, during which the Island is off limits to human visitors.

To reserve your spot on the tour, call the number below.

	Subject:		Hike on Iona Island
	Start Date:		Sunday, December 11 2011 10:00AM
	End Date:		Sunday, December 11 2011 1:00PM
	Summary:		THE FRIENDS OF STERLING FOREST (F.S.F.) a newly formed FRIENDS GROUP, organized to help preserve Sterling Forest State Park. The F.S.F. will continue to educate and share the beauty of this region with our friends who love the out-of-doors. There will not be any fee for our events, Donations are accepted to assist F.S.F. preserve the history of your park. Hike on Iona Island Sunday December 11 10 AM Come and explore the, closed to the public island of Iona. Iona has had a vast history in the formation of our country. You will be surprised at what happened on this Island. We will meet at the kiosk by the RR tracks on Iona Island at 10 AM The trails can be steep and rocky, so please wear sturdy hiking shoes. Our hikes will include stops along the way to interpret natural and historic features.  Registration is required. For more information or to register, call 845-351-5907.